Natalie Gutteridge's goal was not enough to earn a win

Sunderland's hopes of catching Lincoln at the top of the Women's Premier League Northern Division were dented by a 1-1 draw with Newcastle on Thursday.

At the Hetton Centre, the Wearsiders took a second-half lead through striker Natalie Gutteridge but were pegged back by Mel Reay's equaliser on 81 minutes.

A floodlight failure late on caused a 20-minute delay.

Mick Mulhern's side must now win all four games to pip leaders Lincoln to National Premier League promotion.

The Lady Imps, whose season has already finished, have an 11-point lead at the top of the table over Sunderland.

Lincoln Ladies could be crowned champions on Sunday, if Sunderland fail to beat Aston Villa.

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